12 New Pocket Knives, Multi-Tools and EDC You Might Have Missed

Böker’s latest interpretation of the BRLW brings a 355-year-old design into modern times with a 2.99-inch clip-point MagnaCut steel blade and a G10 handle that keeps the knife light, sturdy and grippy while shaving $115 off the original titanium-handled version’s $293 price tag. The upper third of said handle is precision milled to mimic the Barlow’s traditional extra-long bolster while the remaining two-thirds carries a wood grain-like finish. Like its predecessor, this version also features an integrated liner lock, low-profile flipper and titanium pocket clip.

Following in the footsteps of its sister brand, Kershaw, Zero Tolerance has finally launched a knife with an ambidextrous, strong and reliable crossbar lock. However, even without that novel mechanism, this knife would still be exceptional, courtesy of its premium M4 PVD-coated blade and G10 handle. It’s a strong release that’s helping the brand remain relevant, even with only three knife releases so far this year.

Despite having an all-titanium handle and a MagnaCut super steel blade, this remarkably frame lock flipper weighs a mind-blowing 1.6 ounces. Typically, that’s a lightness only achieved by knives with synthetic handles, like G10. However, Avian Knives has done it by skeletonizing this one’s titanium scales to the nth degree. Despite its lightness, it’s still incredibly strong and full-sized, measuring 7.72 inches with a 3.228-inch blade.

A futuristic and materially modern take on a classic Japanese Higonokami folder, this non-locking flipper from Spyderco and Paul Alexander is a masterpiece of precision and style. It boasts a katana-inspired Böhler M390 steel blade mated to a solid titanium handle, which houses its Ball Joint Non-Locking Mechanism. While its price may scare off the faint of heart, collectors who appreciate modern reinterpretations of iconic designs are sure to be pleased.

Inspired by ancient Persian swords, the Black Sable is one of Cold Steel’s most refined folding knives, especially in recent years. It boasts a curvy XHP steel blade with a PVC coating for some extra durability. That blade is mated to a forged carbon fiber, complete with a sturdy back lock. It’s a hefty cutting tool, measuring 10.0 inches and weighing 10.2 ounces, but it is loaded with beauty and utility.

This fetching frame-lock folder boasts a unique grind that blends two ancient Japanese blade styles. The minimalist, ridgeless “hira” shape combines with the faceted, long pointed “osaraku” shape for a streamlined silhouette unlike any other. Get past the form and there’s plenty of function here, too, courtesy of a 3.46-inch blade made of S35VN or Damascus steel, two deployment options (grooved fuller and rear flipper), a tough titanium handle and a tip-up deep-carry pocket clip. 

CRKT builds on the success of the original Redemption (2023) with three stunning variants. The Redemption Compact carries all its predecessor’s best traits — including a spear-point MagnaCut steel blade, CrossBar Lock and G10 handle — but at 3.28 inches, said blade is roughly 24 percent shorter, making the whole package a bit more pocketable. A second Compact boasts a blacked-out blade thanks to a Cerakote finish that boosts its resistance to abrasion, wear, corrosion and chemicals. Last but certainly not least is the Redemption Black, a full-sized knife with a 4.06-inch blade that is similarly, protectively blacked out.

Up-and-coming knife designer Dustin Rhodes follows up with his luxe Wizard Series with something decidedly cheekier but compelling in its own way. The insect-inspired Beest features a honeycomb-patterned handle made of titanium, a sturdy frame lock and deployment via ambidextrous thumb studs, a thumb slot and a jutting front flipper. The drop-point blade, meanwhile, is no joke: made of high-performance S35VN stainless steel, it clocks in at a robust 3.65 inches.

Tanto pocket knives aren’t quite old hat, but they are quite common these days, so its hard for them to stand out. That’s not an issue with these versions of NMB’s Chop, made in collaboration with Tyler Anderson. Available in three configurations (and five total colorways), these exceptional folders take the traditional Japanese-inspired blade and turn them into modern works of art with materials and mechanisms to match. Depending on your choice, you’ll get titanium handle scales with a Cerakote finish, either an M390 or ZDP-189 steel blade and either a frame or liner lock.

With The Overlook, Big Idea Design has taken its best-selling fixed-blade design, The Lookout, and pared it into a minimalist EDC knife. It retains its signature silhouette and materials — namely its M390 blade and titanium handle — but gets a folding design with an integrated frame lock. It’s a stunning transformation that maintains the original’s spirit while making it even more discreet and carry-friendly than ever before.